Firefighters have taken to the streets yesterday after being ignored by the Cook Labor Government over current Enterprise Bargaining Agreement negotiations.
The United Professional Firefighters Union of WA are calling for improved pay and work conditions for career firefighters.
Hon Rob Horstman MLC, Shadow Minister for Emergency Services said that the Government can’t ignore those who prioritise our safety any longer.
“Firefighters are fed up with being ignored by the Government, waiting 67 days for a response to the unions Enterprise Bargaining Agreement counteroffer from the 25th of July.
“In a last-ditch effort to avoid embarrassment the Government finally responded to the counteroffer at 5:05PM the night before the planned rally.”
Mr Horstman said that professional firefighters put their communities first and deserve improved conditions.
“Our firefighters are at breaking point, taking 24-hour shifts to ensure stations are staffed while fire appliances are still left unused in an emergency due to a lack of staff.
“They need more than just an improvement in pay, and it requires a government with the will to look after our firefighters and deliver the resources needed to keep West Australians safe.
“When our firefighters are being burnt out, they can’t protect us.”
Mr John Marsh, Secretary of the United Professional Firefighters Union of WA said Labor’s priorities are wrong and WA firefighters deserve support.
“WA Labor’s big-ticket commitments – from AUKUS nuclear readiness to the EV transition and climate adaptation – are dependent on firefighters who are trained, staffed and equipped to face new risks, on top of the current risks.
“This is an investment in our future, and the union is calling for base wage correction, along with fatigue, health and safety protections, holistic wellness support, specialist capability allowances and expanded leadership training for WA firefighters.
“We deserve support, because when WA needs us, we are always there. We are fighting for our future.” Mr Marsh said.
